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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider PNP steps up security, engages in dialogue to de-escalate tension in Basilan

PNP steps up security, engages in dialogue to de-escalate tension in Basilan

Published Oct 29, 2025 01:14 pm
Acting PNP Chief Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. (File photo: Office of the Chief PNP)
Acting PNP Chief Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. (File photo: Office of the Chief PNP)
Security measures in Basilan were further intensified after armed groups engaged in violent clashes in Tipo-Tipo town over what the authorities described as clan-war related gun battle that started when Islamic teacher and barangay official Ustadz Nadzmi “Bahang” Tarahin was gunned down last week.
Aside from the deployment of police personnel, Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr., acting chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), said local police commanders are also working to de-escalate the tension.
“The Philippine National Police remains steadfast in pursuing justice for the slain barangay official while ensuring that peace is sustained through continuous dialogue and law enforcement cooperation,” Nartatez said.
“Right now, our coordination with the Armed Forces remains very close. Joint checkpoints and patrols are being conducted to maintain peace and order and to ensure the safety of our kababayan,” he added.
Last week, two armed men shot dead Tarahin while waiting for his daughter in Lamitan City. He died in the hospital.
Tarahin was a highly respected Islamic teacher in Basilan and was a former member of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
Six days after his death, gun violence erupted in Tipo-Tipo town at least a hundred gunmen tried to exact revenge by demanding that those responsible for the killing be handed over to them.
The same armed men combed several areas in Tipo-Tipo town in an attempt to capture all those responsible. They were also reported to have surrounded the municipal hall.
In a statement, Nartatez appealed for everyone to reject violence and revenge and instead support the joint peace and law enforcement initiatives now being undertaken by the AFP, PNP, and local leaders, including the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
“The Philippine National Police reaffirms its commitment to uphold the rule of law and to protect the safety and welfare of every Filipino. Through unity, cooperation, and lawful action, peace and justice will prevail in Basilan,” said Nartatez.
He also lauded the efforts of Basilan’s Council of Elders and the local government for helping facilitate peace talks that ended the standoff between the two clans.
“This incident underscores the importance of unity among government forces and the community in rejecting violence and choosing reconciliation,” Nartatez said.
“The Philippine National Police assured the public that law enforcement and peacebuilding efforts will continue in coordination with the AFP and partner stakeholders to maintain lasting security in Basilan,” he added.
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